Microsoft has announced a new range of “Designed for Xbox” accessibility controllers at Gamescom 2024. One of them was created in-house, while others come from manufacturers Byowave and 8BitDo.
First up, we have the Xbox Adaptive Joystick. It's due to launch in early 2025 and will be sold exclusively through the Microsoft Store for $29.99 (around £24.99). It'll be an entry-level wired joystick “designed to meet the needs of gamers with limited mobility as a complement to the Xbox Adaptive Controller and other Xbox controllers, including the Xbox Wireless Controller or Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2,” according to a Microsoft press release.
Next on the list is Byowave’s Proteus controller, which is “designed for Xbox.” It’s available now from Byowave’s website. It’s a highly modular controller that allows gamers to snap together individual sphere-shaped pieces to tailor the gaming experience to their needs and preferences. Some examples include it stacked vertically to resemble a flight stick, or in a 2×2 layout with sticks and modules facing outwards. However, at $299 (around £229), it’s certainly not cheap.
Lastly, we have 8BitDo’s contribution: the 8BitDo Lite SE 2.4G Wireless Controller for Xbox. 8BitDo regularly appears in our guides to the best Xbox controllers and the best PC controllers , and it’s no surprise that the brand’s new accessibility pad features low-resistance face buttons, Hall-effect joysticks, and a symmetrical design for ease of use. It’s also compatible with the Xbox Adaptive Controller, and is available to purchase now for $59.99 from 8BitDo’s website.
Microsoft is also expanding its Xbox Design Lab service with 3D printable files for customizable thumbstick toppers. Microsoft is offering this service at no additional cost, and there are six thumbstick designs available to suit a variety of gaming styles and preferences.
